Homecoming at the University of Iowa is a time to honor traditions, celebrate community, and reflect on what it means to be a Hawkeye. This week, Finance and Operations is proud to highlight employees who not only serve the university today but also share a special connection as Iowa alumni. Their stories capture the experiences, memories, and lasting friendships that shaped their time as students and the pride they carry forward in their roles on campus. From cheering on legendary teams to finding lifelong friends, our F&O Hawkeyes remind us why Iowa will always feel like home.
Jana Andrews Jana Andrews graduated from the University of Iowa in 1986 with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in accounting after starting her studies as a computer science major. She has worked at the university for 18 years – three as a student employee in the Office of Student Financial Aid, and the past 15 as a senior financial analyst in Capital Assets Management. Jana’s favorite memories as a student revolve around time with friends and the vibrant Hawkeye spirit. “We went to music department concerts, $1.50 Burger Baskets at Micky’s were always a hit (yes, $1.50), went to Hawkeye basketball games, and of course spent time tailgating and going to football games on Saturdays. We were lucky to be here at the same time as legendary athletes like Chuck Long (former Iowa football player).” When it comes to being a Hawkeye, Jana loves her family’s deep connection to the university. “My son is a fourth-generation Hawkeye – my paternal grandparents worked here in the 1960s, my dad graduated with a psychology degree, my mom worked at the General Hospital, and my husband also completed undergrad and master’s degrees here. Our son’s great-grandfather would have been proud to know he was on the same campus carrying on the family Hawkeye tradition.”
Darice Baxter Environmental Specialist, Environmental Compliance, Facilities Management Darice Baxter is a double-major alumna who graduated from the University of Iowa with bachelor’s degrees in geology and environmental science from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Darice has worked at the university for 28 years and currently holds a role as an environmental specialist for Facilities Management. Reflecting on her college experience, Darice cherishes her time at athletic events and making new friends. “I had a lot of great experiences while attending the UI, but of course one of the major highlights was attending football games, tailgating, and making new connections – many of which are still friends and colleagues to this day over 25+ years later.” Darice was born to be a Hawkeye as an Iowa City native. “Having grown up in Coralville and attending ICCSD K-12 – I have always been a Hawkeye!”
Ali Carlson Manager, Billing Account Services, Treasury Operations Ali Carlson graduated from the University of Iowa in 2011 from the Tippie College of Business with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in marketing. She has worked at Iowa for 11 years and is a manager for Billing Account Services. Ali reflects fondly on her university experience. “I always looked forward to my classes at Tippie. I lived off campus and would ride the bus over in the morning and then between classes study on the 4th floor library, which was such a quiet and relaxing environment with amazing lighting – a hidden gem.” After growing up in small town Iowa, Ali really values the close-knit, community atmosphere that the UI offered. “Despite being a large campus serving over 30,000 students, it never felt overwhelming. Professors were approachable, class sizes were intimate, and I was able to build meaningful relationships that fostered a strong sense of belonging.”
Kerry Crow Kerry Crow graduated from the University of Iowa in 2007 with a double major in accounting and management. She has been with the university for four years and currently serves as a senior financial analyst in Accounting and Financial Reporting. Kerry looks back fondly on her time at Iowa, particularly the energy on campus. “I enjoyed the livelihood of the university – there was something so enjoyable about seeing students out and about all the time, even in the colder months. I also enjoyed all the friendships I made while attending the UI and the downtown area.”
Brandi Estill Business Analyst, Purchasing, Business Services Brandi Estill graduated from the University of Iowa in 2004 with a degree in art. She has worked at the university for 21 years and currently serves as a business analyst with UI Purchasing. Reflecting on her time as a student, Brandi shares how Iowa shaped her college experience. “Iowa really helped me open up to finding new friends, different groups, and new adventures. The friends I met in the dorm 21 years ago are still my friends, and it is so fun to have a group text where we can constantly reminisce about all the great times at Iowa!” For Brandi, being a Hawkeye means shared pride and energy. “The atmosphere at sporting events is amazing – the crowd and the energy. All three of my siblings also went to Iowa, too, so it is cool that we can all be proud together.”
Renee Funk Chief Procurement Officer, Purchasing, Business Services Renee Funk graduated from the University of Iowa in 2006 with a degree in psychology. She has been with the university for 15 and a half years and currently serves as the Chief Procurement Officer for Business Services. Renee’s favorite memory as a student stems from a lifelong dream of becoming a Hawkeye. “From an early age, I aspired to be a Hawkeye and became the first person in my immediate family to leave our home state of Illinois to attend a Division I university. My favorite memory is the consistent blend of excitement, a sense of belonging to something greater than myself, and a strong feeling of community. The campus has always been beautiful, open-minded, and collaborative.” What Renee loves most about being a Hawkeye is the commitment to growth and impact. “I love our shared vision of continuous improvement and making a positive impact on our community.”
Brittany Losh Program Coordinator, University ID Card Programs, Treasury Operations Brittany Losh graduated from the University of Iowa in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in history and anthropology, along with a certificate in museum studies. During her time as a student, she worked for the Billing Office for two years and has now been with the university as a full-time employee for two years as a program coordinator with University ID Card Programs. One of Brittany’s favorite memories from her time at Iowa is tied to graduation. “The day before graduation, I woke up early with my core group of friends to watch the sunrise at the Old Capitol. Every time they’re back in town, we make sure to watch the sunrise there again.” For Brittany, being a Hawkeye is about the lifelong connections. “I really love the people I have met along the way while becoming a Hawk. Moving to Iowa City and going to Iowa gave me the opportunity to build some of the strongest connections I still keep in touch with today!”
Rachel McGuire Assistant Vice President and University Controller, Controller’s Office Rachel McGuire graduated from the University of Iowa in 2008 with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in accounting and finance from the Tippie College of Business. She later returned to complete her Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 2022. Rachel has been with the university for 13 years and currently serves as an assistant vice president and university controller for the UI Controller’s Office. Some of Rachel’s favorite memories as a student come from her time as a member of the international honorary organization for accounting majors. “I loved participating in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program each spring.” For Rachel, being a Hawkeye extends well beyond campus. “I love being part of the Hawkeye family both in Iowa City and when I encounter fellow Hawkeyes around the world. It always puts a smile on my face when I hear a ‘Go Hawks’ outside of Iowa City.”
Elliott Poma Quality Project Manager, Design and Construction, Facilities Management Elliott Poma graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in history. He has been with the university for two years and currently serves as a quality project manager in Design and Construction. One of Elliott’s fondest Hawkeye memories is spending time in the old art museum. “I loved finding a nook to study. If I ever needed a break I could wander around to look at the art.” What stands out most to Elliott about his Iowa experience is the community. “The community is full of people who truly care and want to make a difference. I cannot count how many people have gone out of their way to do something for me with no thought to how they may benefit from it. The power of a group of people who want to do everything they can to make things better is unstoppable.”
Lyle Seydel Senior Construction Manager, Design and Construction, Facilities Management Lyle Seydel graduated from the University of Iowa in 1986 with a liberal arts degree in geography, specializing in environmental studies. He has been with the university for about a year and a half and currently serves as a senior construction manager for Facilities Management’s Design and Construction department. Lyle recalls one of his most memorable moments as a student: “I’m 5’7”, and in my volleyball class I ended up front line against Ed Horton (former Iowa basketball player). It was brutal.” For Lyle, the Hawkeye community has always been a constant. “I have been in orbit around this university and these Hawkeyes since I was 7 years old. The Hawkeye community is a very tight-knit community. In all my travels wearing U of I attire, there is always a ‘Go Hawks!’ shout from a total stranger.”
Derek Timmerman Event Coordinator, Parking and Transportation, Business Services Derek Timmerman graduated from the University of Iowa in 2002 with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in marketing. He has been with the university for 17 years and currently serves as an event coordinator for Parking and Transportation. One of Derek’s favorite memories from his time as a student that is especially meaningful was meeting his wife while eating at the Quadrangle dining hall. For Derek, being a Hawkeye is a point of pride. “World-class educational institution, top-tier sports teams, and Iowa City > Ames.”
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Josey Bathke Josey Bathke graduated from the University of Iowa in 2003, earning both a Juris Doctor (JD) from the College of Law and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Tippie College of Business. She has been with the university for 19 years and currently serves as the Chief Risk Officer for Risk Management, Insurance, and Loss Prevention. One of Josey’s favorite memories as a student was working with Tippie faculty and other JD/MBA graduate students as a teaching assistant for Introduction to Law. For Josey, the best part of being a Hawkeye is the lifelong network. “The alumni network and connections all over the world – every place I have traveled I run into Hawkeyes!”
Mark Bullock Assistant Vice President, Campus Safety Mark Bullock has been with the University of Iowa for 11 years and is both a proud alumnus and employee. As a non-traditional student in his 30s, Mark earned his Bachelor of Liberal Studies (BLS) and later his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Iowa. Reflecting on his time as a student, Mark most appreciated the flexibility and support the university provided. Experiencing Iowa from both sides, as a student and an employee, was particularly meaningful. Some of his favorite memories include turning onto Iowa Avenue and seeing the Old Capitol on the Pentacrest, and walking through campus along the Pentacrest and T. Anne Cleary Walkway on beautiful fall and spring days. For Mark, being a Hawkeye means belonging to a community that extends far beyond Iowa City. “As many people experience, no matter where I visit in the world, I hear people yelling, ‘GO HAWKS!’ when they see me wearing Hawkeye gear. You never feel too far from home!”
Joe Cerrone Customer Service Coordinator, Parking and Transportation, Business Services Joe Cerrone graduated from the University of Iowa in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He has worked at the university for seven years and currently serves as a customer service coordinator with Fleet Services in Parking and Transportation. Some of Joe’s favorite Hawkeye memories include tailgating and attending football games, experiences that continue to connect him to the Hawkeye community.
Keri Donahue Keri Donahue graduated from the University of Iowa in 2022 with a major in communications and two minors in human relations and criminal justice systems. She has been with the university for seven and a half years, beginning as a student employee her freshman year before transitioning into a full-time role where she now serves as an interim parking services supervisor in Parking and Transportation. Keri’s favorite memories from her time as a student are rooted in the connections she made. “I met some of my very best friends in class, at social gatherings, and everything in between.” For Keri, being a Hawkeye means always belonging. “It’s not often you can end up halfway across the world and still feel like you’re ‘home.’ However, just when you’re feeling out of place, you’ll see a Herky or a little Iowa logo and start up a conversation with a stranger – all because you’re both Hawkeye family.”
Sydney Flanscha Officer, Campus Safety Sydney Flanscha graduated from the University of Iowa in 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, criminology, law, and justice. She has been with the university for four years and now serves as a police officer with the Campus Safety. One of Sydney’s favorite memories from her time as a student was working in the costume shops on campus. “I loved making costumes for all the theater productions. It was even more magical to go to the plays and watch the costumes on stage as the actors brought my work to life.” For Sydney, being a Hawkeye is about giving back to the community that shaped her. “I love being able to serve the community that educated me, made memories with me, and propelled me through college. When I work with students on campus, I see a younger version of myself, and I always try to do right by her by making other people feel seen.”
Adam S. Herrig Sergeant, Night Watch, Campus Safety Adam Herrig graduated from the University of Iowa in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in economics and a minor in business. He has worked at the university for three years as a sergeant with the Night Watch team in Campus Safety. Adam’s college memories involve trips to the Iowa Memorial Union (IMU) for snacks and studying after class. “Back then, Hubbard Commons was still an open-air patio!” As a Hawkeye, Adam values his role in helping the community that he received his education in. “I'm grateful to give back to the institution and I meet new campus partners every day! Most importantly, there's a strong sense of community, shared mission, and collaborative spirit at the University of Iowa - the Hawkeye Spirit!”
Kathy Maxey Senior Treasury Operations Specialist, Treasury Operations Kathy Maxey graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in finance and a minor in art history. She has been with the university for 32 years, recently celebrating her work anniversary on September 3 as a senior treasury operations specialist with UI Treasury Operations. Some of Kathy’s favorite memories as a student include the variety her liberal arts education offered. “I loved acting class in the Old Armory, ballet in North Hall, and walking across the IMU bridge from the Art Building – only to have to race up Jefferson to make it to class on time in Phillips Hall!” For Kathy, the best part of being a Hawkeye is how her education allowed her to explore her passions broadly. “My liberal arts education let me enjoy theatre, art, and dance while earning my finance degree.”
Colin Nelson-Pinkston Officer, Night Watch, Campus Safety Colin Nelson-Pinkston graduated from the University of Iowa in 2014 with degrees in international studies and Spanish. He has been with the university for nearly three years, joining Campus Safety in November 2022 as a police officer on the Night Watch team. One of Colin’s favorite memories from his time at Iowa was writing his senior thesis on the legacy and development of Olympic Games host cities. That passion later came full circle when he volunteered as an interpreter at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games for wrestling and judo competitions. For Colin, being a Hawkeye is deeply tied to history. “I love the history of how the Hawkeye brand came to be. Working at the Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame as a student, I got to see incredible pieces of Iowa and world history up close – everything from Nile Kinnick's yearbook to a newspaper from the day after Abraham Lincoln's death.”
Tracy Scott Executive IT Director, ITS Enterprise Services, ITS Tracy Scott graduated from the University of Iowa in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in management information systems and later earned his executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 2015. He has been with the university for 27 years as a full-time employee, and 32 years when counting his time as a student employee. Tracy currently serves as an executive IT director for ITS Enterprise Services. Tracy’s favorite memories as a student center around the friendships he built, sharing his love for meeting new people and hanging out with friends during his time at Iowa. For Tracy, the Hawkeye connection is one of the best parts of being part of the community. “It feels like no matter where I go, if I’m wearing Hawkeye gear someone says hello and ‘Go Hawks!’”
Lori Skoff Assistant Director of Parking, Parking and Transportation, Business Services Lori Skoff graduated from the Tippie College of Business with a bachelor’s degree in management and an entrepreneurial management certificate. She began working at the University of Iowa as a student employee in 2003 and transitioned to full-time in 2004. She now serves as the assistant director of parking in Parking and Transportation. Lori’s best memory from her college experience was the Hawkeye spirit. “It is infectious in the best way.” For Lori, the best part of being a Hawkeye is the sense of belonging. “The community and all the people that work here – it’s one large Hawkeye family.”
Lisa Turnbough Grant Accountant, Grant Accounting, Controller’s Office Lisa Turnbough graduated from the University of Iowa in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a minor in history. She has been with the UI for just under a year, serving as a grant accountant. One of Lisa’s favorite Hawkeye memories is attending her first football game at Kinnick Stadium. “It was cold and rainy, but the atmosphere was amazing,” she recalls. For Lisa, being a Hawkeye is more than a college experience – it extends way further. “I love that being a Hawkeye doesn’t end at graduation. It’s a lifelong badge of honor. I also love game days in Iowa City. They are electric. It’s a beautiful sea of black and gold with the greatest tradition in college football: The Wave.”
Debby Zumbach Associate Vice President and Director, Business Services and Parking and Transportation Debby Zumbach graduated from the University of Iowa in 1988 with dual degrees in accounting and management information systems, then went on to receive her master’s in accounting in 1989. Debby has worked at the UI for 35 years, where she currently holds roles as the Associate Vice President and Director for Business Services and Parking and Transportation. Debby said she struggles to pick just one favorite memory from her time at Iowa when reflecting on her college experience. “I fell in love with the campus, community and people. I met some lifelong friends at the university but will never forget the day I ran into a friend from my childhood, who I had not seen in 10 years. We immediately picked up where we left off and eventually got an apartment together. College is a great experience, with lifelong memories made and a desire to never leave.” While Debby initially came to Iowa for the accounting program, she came back to work here to make a difference. “I became a Hawkeye in the process because Hawkeyes stand for every good and positive in this world. Hawkeyes make a positive difference everywhere they go. Instead of Iowa Nice, they should refer to it as Hawkeye Nice.” |